Some derive it from Dour (water), it being next to the Thames, at the foot of the hill; others say it is “Down-gate,” the gate of the down, dune, or hill, as Brighton Downs (hills), South-downs, etc.
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Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.
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